Come Home To Claytonhttps://www.comehome2clayton.com
Live - Work - Thrive In Clayton County, GASat, 02 May 2020 17:08:06 +0000en-US
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3232153343812Stunning Waterfront Mansion for Sale in Claytonhttps://www.comehome2clayton.com/stunning-waterfront-mansion-for-sale-in-clayton/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=stunning-waterfront-mansion-for-sale-in-clayton
https://www.comehome2clayton.com/stunning-waterfront-mansion-for-sale-in-clayton/#respondSat, 02 May 2020 16:00:50 +0000https://www.comehome2clayton.com/?p=1953History lives here Beyond the fact that this home is worthy of all its accolades, which I can’t wait to share with you, this real estate has great historical significance to Clayton. The land for which it sits on was previously owned by pioneer Dr. Walter Boone Spivey and his wife, Emilie. They built their […]

Beyond the fact that this home is worthy of all its accolades, which I can’t wait to share with you, this real estate has great historical significance to Clayton. The land for which it sits on was previously owned by pioneer Dr. Walter Boone Spivey and his wife, Emilie. They built their home on this land back in the 1950s.

Although the Spivey’s original homestead was torn down years ago, now stands a stunning estate, and it’s the newest construction on Lake Spivey, with 1.5 acres of land and a magnificent view of the sunset above the water.

An Entertainer’s Paradise

Imagine a custom-built home with about 5,400 square feet of space made of all brick and stone, with cedar wood accents. This home has lots of windows to flaunt the serene waters, but even more, it boasts commercial construction for durability with steel i-beams, a metal structure support, and concrete throughout – talk about solid!

From the moment you enter this home, you are welcomed into a large living room with a soaring 27 ft pine ceiling, floating staircase, gas fireplace, and a tile floor that has the appearance of hardwood. Once inside, you can’t help but notice the spacious industrial chef’s kitchen with all the bells and whistles – exotic marble countertops, subway tile backsplash, double sink, stainless appliances, plus a sub-zero refrigerator, of course!

Living area

All five bedrooms are spacious and have ensuite bathrooms. The master suite is on the main level with a see-thru fireplace to the luxury bath and an amazing view of the lake. The loft on the 2nd floor has a walk-out with another fantastic view of the water.

My favorite feature, however, is the ability that this home has to open its glass wall doors (called Nano doors) into the lānai (covered porch) resort-style with a flat-screen television, bar, and built-in heaters for year-round enjoyment. Just beyond the lānai lies a salt-water infinity pool with vanishing edges and a waterfall that faces an expansive view of the lake – it’s breathtaking! By the way, Hawaii is known for lānais, but this is the first home in Lake Spivey that gives the look and feel of an authentic Hawaiian retreat. This home is controlled by smart technology. One push of a button can turn on lights, speakers, electronics, fireplaces, and security.

This home also includes a hot tub, pool bath with built-in sauna, tankless water heater, three-car extra-deep garage, storage area, and two boat docks. The grounds have been professionally landscaped with all types of flowering plants and an orchard of limes, lemons, mangos, and grapes… Yummy!!

Lānai

Featured in Architectural Digest and BET TV Series

Architectural Digest features this Clayton County estate in its February 2020 edition. Also, recently filmed on this property, was Boomerang, a BET American comedy television series, based upon the 1992 movie that featured Eddie Murphy and Halle Berry.

Lake Spivey – Historically known as Atlanta’s Fabulous Playground

Nestled among the beautiful rolling hills of historic Clayton County near Jonesboro, Lake Spivey is the largest privately-owned lake in Georgia with 600-acres. It’s located about 30 minutes from the heart of downtown Atlanta, and about 20 minutes from Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport.

Residents enjoy cruising with pontoon boats, wakeboarding, water skiing, jet skiing, canoeing, kayaking, tubing, fishing, and swimming. Property owners of Lake Spivey own the land outright, unlike in other lake communities such as Lake Lanier, where residents lease the land. Lake Spivey is a spring-fed lake with 25 ft average depth, and 55 ft in its deepest water. Spring fed lakes are mostly from deep aquifer sources where water flows up and into the lake to maintain its levels.

About 80 percent of the homes on Lake Spivey lie in Clayton County; the remaining 20 percent lies in Henry County. Lake Spivey Civic Association owns and manages the lake. Each year, the civic association displays the Lake Spivey 4th of July Fireworks show enjoyed by residents and the surrounding area.

Infinity pool

Master bedroom

Chef’s kitchen

Floating staircase

Rear-view

View of the property line and Lake Spivey

It’s not every day that a piece of history is offered for sale in Clayton. Built by Luxury Home Builder, Brian Robison of Summit Design and Build, this home is priced at $1,590,000.

If you or someone that you know is in the market to purchase a luxury estate, please contact me, Altimese Dees, Realtor/Broker, for more information and a viewing- Direct: 678-644-1712; Email: deesaltimese@gmail.com.

Photos: Courtesy of Robert Payne of Keller Williams Realty and Premier Media

About the Publisher

Altimese Dees founded The Real Estate Gallery of Georgia, LLC., in 2008 out of a passion and commitment to providing real estate representation to buyers, sellers, property owners, investors, builders, corporations and governments. Altimese is the publisher of ComeHome2Clayton.com. If you are in the market to buy or sell a home or office in Georgia, please contact Altimese Dees, Broker/Owner, The Real Estate Gallery of Georgia; Direct: 678-644-1712; Email: deesaltimese@gmail.com; www.RealEstateGalleryGA.com and www.TrustedRealEstateConsultant.com.

]]>https://www.comehome2clayton.com/stunning-waterfront-mansion-for-sale-in-clayton/feed/01953Seize the Opportunity to Own a Dine-In Restaurant in Riverdalehttps://www.comehome2clayton.com/seize-the-opportunity-to-own-a-dine-in-restaurant-in-riverdale/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=seize-the-opportunity-to-own-a-dine-in-restaurant-in-riverdale
https://www.comehome2clayton.com/seize-the-opportunity-to-own-a-dine-in-restaurant-in-riverdale/#respondMon, 16 Mar 2020 14:40:30 +0000https://www.comehome2clayton.com/?p=2009Commercial retail development will soon break ground in Riverdale, Ga, presenting an excellent opportunity with great incentives to own a dine-in restaurant on Georgia Highway 85. Clayton County is the land of opportunity, and there is no better time to take the leap with all of the available resources in Clayton to help you achieve […]

]]>Commercial retail development will soon break ground in Riverdale, Ga, presenting an excellent opportunity with great incentives to own a dine-in restaurant on Georgia Highway 85.

Clayton County is the land of opportunity, and there is no better time to take the leap with all of the available resources in Clayton to help you achieve your business and investment goals.

Being involved in my community, I have heard Clayton residents continually express the desire to have a variety of eating options similar to restaurants found on the northside. As an entrepreneur, I know it’s easier to talk about what we want than it is to make it happen in our community. Truth be told, we invite the big-box retail investors into our community but our residents also make good investors. The people who live here know first-hand the needs of our community.

With the help of local banks and the idea of forging partnerships with others, owning a piece of your neighborhood is well within reach. It just takes determination, creativity, and getting to know the right people such as Realtors, lenders, developers, employees in the county’s Planning and Zoning Office, the Clayton Chamber of Commerce, Invest Clayton, and our elected commissioners.

I am inspired by a story I read about a group of Portland residents who pooled their money together to form a Community Investment Trust. They used the Trust to purchase a commercial establishment in their neighborhood. Not only did they acquire the business with those funds, but annual dividend payments were made to the individuals and families who invested. Click here to read the story.

Your Opportunity to Own a Dine-In Restaurant in Riverdale

There are plenty of fast-food chains in Riverdale and in other parts of Clayton but not enough dine-in restaurants. Consequently, southside residents have to venture out to neighboring counties or downtown Atlanta to enjoy a meal with family and friends.

The possibilities in Clayton County are endless. We have land. We have the people and the resources. Now we need committed entrepreneurs and investors to turn their dreams into reality. Is that you?

The Riverdale Restaurant Opportunity Unveiled

Commercial Development Coming to Riverdale

With the recent zoning approval of GB – General Business District, a local developer has closed on land in Riverdale on GA Highway 85 and Webb Road, which is approximately 4 miles from the I-75 exit. The official address, though not yet marked, is 8060 Highway 85, Riverdale, GA 30274. The commercial developer will soon break ground on a retail center and gas station near the corner, leaving a 600 feet frontage on GA Highway 85 for a dine-in restaurant. According to the Georgia Department of Transportation, the traffic count along GA Highway 85 is approximately 42,000 in Clayton, reaching into Fayette County. All utilities are available, including the sewer. There will be two entrances into the development – one entrance access off Highway 85, and the other entrance off Webb Road. However, the buyer of the restaurant parcel will have the option to create a second entrance off of Highway 85 for direct access to the restaurant’s parking. The buyer can purchase the 1.52 acres outright to begin building the restaurant, or the owner will consider owner financing or a land lease agreement. The list price for the parcel is $450,000.

Business Incentives to Get You Started

Clayton County is considered a “Tier 1 Georgia County,” which means that any business, small or large, that is locating to Clayton can qualify for the Job Tax Credit. This tax credit provides $4,000 per job created for up to five (5) years. This incentive applies all over the county. Plus, according to the senior business development manager of Invest Clayton, Erica Rocker-Wills, “Clayton County boasts its own Water Authority for restaurants or heavy water users, and rates can be negotiated for volume users on new development.” For more information about these incentives, contact Clayton Economic Development at 770-477-4450.

The bottom line is this: We must eat to sustain ourselves, and some of us enjoy eating out occasionally, or a lot! Individuals and families can step up to own a piece of their own neighborhood, individually or in partnership with others. With the option for owner financing or leasing the land, this Restaurant Opportunity in Riverdale can open a world of opportunity for your benefit, and the community. You just have to seize the opportunity to begin!

If you are interested in owning or investing, please contact me, Altimese Dees, Listing Agent/ Broker for The Real Estate Gallery of Georgia. I can be reached at 770-217-7518; or email: deesaltimese@gmail.com.

]]>https://www.comehome2clayton.com/seize-the-opportunity-to-own-a-dine-in-restaurant-in-riverdale/feed/02009Clayton County Making Strides in Walkable Communitieshttps://www.comehome2clayton.com/walkable-communities/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=walkable-communities
https://www.comehome2clayton.com/walkable-communities/#commentsWed, 11 Mar 2020 16:20:02 +0000https://www.comehome2clayton.com/?p=1103Clayton County’s efforts to create a community that promotes walking and other physical activities provide benefits for Clayton County. Riverdale, Rex, Forest Park, Lovejoy, Morrow, College Park, and Jonesboro have made some improvements in adding sidewalks in business districts and residential areas. In fact, downtown Jonesboro is becoming a “walkability” template. Meanwhile, a major player […]

]]>Clayton County’s efforts to create a community that promotes walking and other physical activities provide benefits for Clayton County.

Riverdale, Rex, Forest Park, Lovejoy, Morrow, College Park, and Jonesboro have made some improvements in adding sidewalks in business districts and residential areas. In fact, downtown Jonesboro is becoming a “walkability” template.

Meanwhile, a major player in creating walkable communities throughout metro Atlanta is making a big splash in Clayton with its Clayton Connects project.

So what exactly does walkability mean? It means linking communities in compact neighborhoods so residents can walk to nearby stores, cafés, workplaces, and entertainment venues while encountering neighbors in an atmosphere of vibrant community cohesion.

For example, downtown Jonesboro is loaded with atmosphere and charm. The brick-lined sidewalk of S. Main Street is just made for strolling. A café, souvenir shop, business offices, and the Arts Clayton Gallery are neatly aligned on a single block adjacent to the grounds of the old Clayton County Courthouse. With the area’s historic homes, churches, banks, amphitheater and residential areas within easy walking distance, Jonesboro has the makings of a downtown walkability showcase.

City officials in Jonesboro are taking action. The Downtown Development Authority of the City of Jonesboro is attracting new development, and the city has created a designated Downtown Entertainment District zoning area.

At the same time, the nonprofit PATH Foundation, a longtime creator and influencer of walkable communities in metro Atlanta, is making a big splash in Clayton with its Clayton Connects project.

PATH started its walkability plan in Clayton in 2016 by creating walking and biking trails to promote physical activity in the county. To date, Clayton Connects has opened six miles of greenway trails, connecting International Park and the Lake Spivey Golf Club to Crane Road. Within this area, the trail also links Atlanta Beach, J. Charley Griswell Senior Center and several Lake Spivey neighborhoods.

Much more is on the way.

An astonishing 120 miles of greenways will ultimately link downtown Jonesboro, Clayton State University, Riverdale, Rex, and College Park near Hartsfield- Jackson International Airport.

PATH also has helped preserve metro Atlanta’s forested character by building more than 30 scenic greenways totaling more than 260 miles since 1991, attracting walkers and bicyclists by the tens of thousands every year.

With its fundraising prowess, the ability to obtain matching funds, and supported by SPLOST, PATH is changing the face of Clayton County through Clayton Connects.

Connecting our communities with walking and biking paths will be a tremendous boost to walkability and a Clayton County game changer. With the recent announcement of Marta adding a commuter rail line for Clayton, the county will be poised to connect residential areas and business districts with walking trails and transit options to anywhere and everywhere.

Here are ways planning and development officials across the country are pursuing the benefits of creating more walkable communities:

Increasing Real Estate Values and Taxes

WalkScore.com places a numerical value on the walkability of addresses around the country. Their data show that for each walkability point, home value increases by $500 to $3,000.

With more people walking the neighborhood, awareness grows, and violators become less likely to commit crimes.

Stimulating Neighborhood Revitalization and Economic Development

Consumers who visit multiple shops clustered in a compact area and make several individual purchases rather than one large one increases their overall spending. Tourism tends to rise in walkable communities, expanding small business opportunities. Home buyers are more frequently asking for homes in walkable neighborhoods.

Encouraging Health and Well Being

The PATH Foundation points out that whether trail users are walking, riding, skating or rollerblading, they are on their way to better health. Just as important, they are seeking opportunities to live a healthier lifestyle; walkable communities attract health-conscious people.

Improving the Environment

The Washington Post reports that walkable communities encourage fewer car trips since residents can walk to almost everything they need, improving air quality and reducing the mental and physical toll of too much time behind the wheel.

The bottom line is this: Walkability adds cohesion and vibrancy to communities – creating a livable sense of place home buyers are desiring. Clayton County and Clayton County Real Estate is taking this trend in the right direction.

Brick-lined sidewalks in downtown Forest Park, GA are apart of its Main Street Redevelopment project.

]]>https://www.comehome2clayton.com/walkable-communities/feed/11103Clayton County Increases Ties with Hollywoodhttps://www.comehome2clayton.com/clayton-county-increases-ties-with-hollywood/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=clayton-county-increases-ties-with-hollywood
https://www.comehome2clayton.com/clayton-county-increases-ties-with-hollywood/#respondWed, 11 Mar 2020 05:25:41 +0000https://www.comehome2clayton.com/?p=1997If you’re a fan of the Will Smith-Martin Lawrence buddy films Bad Boys, you’ve probably memorized their witty banter and held your breath during every high-speed chase. But did you know their latest film Bad Boys For Life which opened in January was shot in Clayton County? The Venue, a nightclub on Frontage Road in […]

]]>If you’re a fan of the Will Smith-Martin Lawrence buddy films Bad Boys, you’ve probably memorized their witty banter and held your breath during every high-speed chase. But did you know their latest film Bad Boys For Life which opened in January was shot in Clayton County?

The Venue, a nightclub on Frontage Road in Forest Park, doubled as a trendy Miami nightclub in the latest Bad Boys film.

The popular 2015 action flick Fast and Furious 7 was also filmed in Forest Park. The film’s gritty warehouse scenes took place at the former Fort Gillem Army base. And the location of the diner scene where the stars of the 2017 movie Baby Driver meet? You guessed it. It also was shot in the Clayton County town.

Even comedy genius Eddie Murphy ventured to Clayton last year to make his long-anticipated followup Coming To America 2, due out in theaters nationwide in August.

Hollywood increasingly is turning to Clayton County Tourism and Film for a variety of film and television production needs.

In fact, Clayton turned its best performance last year in its decade-long film-making pursuits.

“We had the most successful year in filming in 2019 in terms of production days and location fees and revenue,” said Tamara Patridge, executive director of Clayton County Tourism and Film.

Some 52 film and television productions were shot in Clayton in 2019, bringing the total number of productions that have filmed in Clayton to more than 200 during the last decade. Clayton’s top five film venues grossed a record $705,708 in location fees last year, Patridge said. More importantly, those five venues had an economic impact of more than $1.3 million in the county.

Last year, Clayton saw more work with premium cable/satellite and streaming production such as HBO and Netflix, Patridge noted.

Television projects leave a larger, more indelible footprint in a community, with multiple episodes and, in most cases, more than one season of filming, Patridge noted. Clayton’s television clients included HBO as well as streaming services such as Netflix and Amazon Video.

Various productions spent a total of 405 days in Clayton last year, Patridge said.

Movies filmed in Clayton

Clayton County Figures Prominently in Film and TV

Clayton figures prominently in the film and television production business in Georgia, which is among the top filming locations in the world. The Georgia Film, Music & Digital Entertainment Office reported $2.8 billion in direct spending from film and TV production in the state in 2019.

Getting an exact figure on Clayton’s portion of the state’s overall film and television production business is difficult because the state does not breakdown the economic impact on the county level, Patridge said.

“We have had a lot of repeat business in Clayton which is an indication we’re probably doing a good job,” Patridge said.

When it’s not courting its own productions, Clayton County Tourism and Film has lent a hand to other movie production facilities. And other big-name studios have turned to Clayton.

Southlake Mall has figured prominently in scenes in the Emmy award-winning television series Atlanta, starring Donald Glover.

International filmmaker Pinewood Studios – producer of the James Bond and Ant Man movie franchises – has a massive complex with five sound stages in Fayette County. But the British filmmaker has tapped Clayton on occasion to handle some of its production. In fact, the county’s most noteworthy projects last year came from Pinewood: Marvel Comics’ Venom and Avengers: Infinity Wars.

“You can’t film everything in a studio environment and the transportation costs of driving into the city of Atlanta can get pretty expensive,” Patridge said. “So Clayton is often a desirable alternative to driving into the city.”

Television often has a deeper impact on a community because a TV show has multiple episodes. TV production crews tend to spend more time and money in the community.

“We’re seeing a lot more activity from Netflix and other streaming services,” Patridge said. “Eighty percent of the production activity we’re currently seeing is from Netflix.”

Parts of “Raising Dion,” a Netflix series release last year, was shot in Clayton, Patridge said.

Clayton County’s Top 5 Film Venues

Southern Regional Medical Center

City of Forest Park, city-owned properties

City of Morrow, city-owned properties

Clayton County, government-owned properties

Georgia Archives

Atlanta will always be a lure for Hollywood but Clayton’s ability to be rural, suburban, historic and futuristic has become very attractive to film and television producers. And where else in metro Atlanta can you find a ready-made beach?

Bad Boys For Life already has grossed more than $100 million in its first month, making it the highest-grossing January theatrical release of all time, according to industry reports. Similarly, Venom, a sci-fi thriller that opened October 2018, had the largest October opening in movie history. Parts of that film were shot in Clayton’s Historic Rex Village.

“Everyone has banded together and done a phenomenal job in keeping the film industry coming back to Clayton,” Patridge said. “If we didn’t have a film-friendly community and film-friendly business owners, they wouldn’t come back.”

]]>https://www.comehome2clayton.com/clayton-county-increases-ties-with-hollywood/feed/01997Ten Reasons to Love Clayton County, GAhttps://www.comehome2clayton.com/ten-reasons-to-love-clayton-county-ga/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=ten-reasons-to-love-clayton-county-ga
https://www.comehome2clayton.com/ten-reasons-to-love-clayton-county-ga/#commentsTue, 18 Feb 2020 14:00:14 +0000https://www.comehome2clayton.com/?p=1489It’s easy to fall in love with a community that’s working together for the common good. As with many communities, Clayton County, GA is a work in progress, but we’re headed in the right direction, thanks to government leaders, workers, and passionate residents who contribute their time and energy towards making it a special place. […]

]]>It’s easy to fall in love with a community that’s working together for the common good. As with many communities, Clayton County, GA is a work in progress, but we’re headed in the right direction, thanks to government leaders, workers, and passionate residents who contribute their time and energy towards making it a special place. My husband and I arrived more than 20 years ago and have loved raising our family here. By asking myself what I should tell a new friend about Clayton County, I narrowed my list of favorites to just ten:

1. Attractive and Affordable real estate

I have toured many homes in Clayton over the years, and I’ve seen some of the most beautiful homes with unique floor plans sitting on 1+ acres of land! Unfortunately for newcomers, most of these homes are already taken. However, on occasion, there are some that come on the market, which would be your opportunity to grab one quickly!

3. Easy access to Downtown Atlanta – and the World!

In Clayton County, we are just minutes from the heart of Atlanta – one of America’s most dynamic, exciting cities – and vice-versa! There are Nineteen Clayton County exits off four major interstates.

Speaking of convenience, we love having Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport right here in Clayton County.

Plus, with the recent announcement of MARTA expanding commuter rail service to Clayton, we are in the process of planning for our own Beltline project – a Clayton County Beltline, a mixture of commuter rail, bus rapid transit, and regular bus service. It’s all about connectivity and getting people from one point to the next.

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport

4. A Great Place to Find a Good job – Or Start Your Own Business!

I’m very excited that local leaders are creating a world-class mixed-use development around Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. Aerotropolis Atlanta is leveraging the airport’s $23 billion economic engine to build a Clayton-centric business powerhouse.

If you’re bringing your business with you or looking for a place to get started, you will find a warm welcome from a government and Chamber of Commerce eager to boost your dream, possibly with tax credits, incentives, and access to capital.

Clayton County’s 6,000 independent businesses are proving every day that we are a hotbed of self-motivated, innovative entrepreneurs.

5. Parks, Recreation and Walking Trails Abound

I love lakes and Clayton has some beautiful views. Plus, Clayton County is home to 16 community, neighborhood and regional parks, four recreation centers, and the Gerald A. Matthews sports complex.

The Clayton County International Park, previously known as the “Atlanta Beach” is being renovated this year with an improved Tennis Center, beach facilities, events complex, and pavilions.

Clayton Connects is opening mile after mile of a master-planned 112-mile walking and biking trail system connecting Clayton communities and Atlanta-area trails.

Newman Wetlands Center in Hampton, Ga

6. Arts, Culture and Community

I love community venues that bring neighbors together, such as free concerts, movies in the park, downtown streetscapes, eclectic food trucks, and a coffee house. Warm weather brings out the best in Clayton and makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside.

An experience not to be missed is a performance at magnificent Spivey Hall, known as “The Carnegie Hall of the South.” Located on the campus of Clayton State University and frequently featured on National Public Radio’s “Performance Today,” Spivey Hall has an international reputation for exceptional programming and acoustical excellence.

We love the three performance areas under one roof at the Clayton County Schools Performing Arts Center. Technologically advanced and seating 1,800, we catch emerging young performers, concerts, and dance performances.

With both a county police department and sheriff’s office complementing local law enforcement, Clayton County’s public safety presence deters crime and keeps our communities safe. A growing Neighborhood Watch Program builds ties between police and community, making everyone safer.

8. Fresh Food and Water Heaven

We love the Atlanta State Farmers Market for fantastic fresh fruit and vegetables offered by more than 100 vendors in a one-of-a-kind 155-acre marketplace. It’s the world’s largest fruits and vegetables stand. Sometimes called “The Refrigerator of the South,” the Market has 890,000 square feet of climate-controlled space, half at refrigerator temperature and another 16,400 s.f. for freezing. By the way, they sell flowers and plants too!

With a recent $10 million upgrade, the 100 very busy vendors at the Farmer’s Market will be offering the freshest produce to residents, supermarkets, and restaurants throughout the southeast for years to come.

In Clayton, we have our share of “country” feel, and the city of Lovejoy grows farm-fresh vegetables in a lush, quiet 14-acre garden and sells them at its charming, rustic General Store. How cute is that!

9. A Growing Tourism Industry

People come from all over to visit the Road to Tara Museum, with memorabilia from “Gone With The Wind.” Novelist Margaret Mitchell has deep family roots here. The Museum is a perfect complement to the Stately Oaks Plantation, one of the most picturesque antebellum mansions in the South. A popular bus tour offers an in-depth look at the Museum, Plantation, the Warren House (scene of a Civil War battle hospital and headquarters), and the Jonesboro Confederate cemetery. Simply historic!

Thanks to attractive, reasonably-priced homes, arts, nature, fresh food, education, and cultural history, I am at home in Clayton County, GA. I could go on, but you get the picture (haha!). My love for Clayton County, GA is contagious, you know. I hope you catch it and start spreading the love…

About the Publisher

Altimese Dees founded The Real Estate Gallery of Georgia, LLC., in 2008 out of a passion and commitment to providing real estate representation to buyers, sellers, property owners, investors, builders, corporations, and governments. Altimese is the publisher of ComeHome2Clayton.com. If you are in the market to buy or sell a home or office in Georgia, please contact Altimese Dees, Broker/Owner, The Real Estate Gallery of Georgia; Direct: 678-644-1712; Email: deesaltimese@gmail.com; Web: www.RealEstateGalleryGA.com and www.TrustedRealEstateConsultant.com.

]]>https://www.comehome2clayton.com/ten-reasons-to-love-clayton-county-ga/feed/41489Jonesboro to bring arts and entertainment district to Claytonhttps://www.comehome2clayton.com/jonesboro-broad-street-project-to-bring-art-and-entertainment-district-to-clayton/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=jonesboro-broad-street-project-to-bring-art-and-entertainment-district-to-clayton
https://www.comehome2clayton.com/jonesboro-broad-street-project-to-bring-art-and-entertainment-district-to-clayton/#respondSun, 09 Feb 2020 18:44:56 +0000https://www.comehome2clayton.com/?p=1911 Imagine dining in some of Atlanta’s finest and hard-to-get-into eateries or listening to Jazz while sipping on craft beer in a microbrewery or shopping in a quaint, one-of-a-kind boutique – all without leaving Clayton County. It’s coming. Jonesboro leaders are in the midst of creating the Broad Street Project, a $7.8 million plan that […]

Imagine dining in some of Atlanta’s finest and hard-to-get-into eateries or listening to Jazz while sipping on craft beer in a microbrewery or shopping in a quaint, one-of-a-kind boutique – all without leaving Clayton County.

It’s coming.

Jonesboro leaders are in the midst of creating the Broad Street Project, a $7.8 million plan that will transform the county seat into a highly-sought-after art, entertainment, and fine dining gathering spot, similar to those enjoyed by residents in Roswell and Alpharetta. The project broke ground last fall and should be finished by this summer. It will join Jonesboro’s Lee Street Park and amphitheater where concerts and other city events are held.

“The Broad Street Project will provide a central meeting place in our downtown Historic District,” said Jonesboro Mayor Joy Day. “We see it as a catalyst for further economic growth. We anticipate new developments in the city which will add to this effort and are already seeing the interest generated by our effort thus far. With added housing options, we anticipate new residents and businesses as a result of our development efforts.”

Restaurants Debuting in Historic Jonesboro

Among the jewels to look for: The Atlanta Breakfast Club, which was named Best Brunch in Atlanta in 2018, and Slutty Vegan, which has rap icon Snoop Dogg and Hollywood A-Listers queuing up to get a taste of the vegan fare.

Jonesboro’s renewal is part of an ongoing series of projects dating back to 2003. The revitalization plans over time seek to link the city and county, making both more user-friendly with the help of walking trails, updated and efficient transportation, and an economically-vibrant business district, spurred by mixed-use development.

Jonesboro is participating in the Atlanta Regional Commission’s Livable Centers Initiative, a grant program that urges local governments to transform their communities into vibrant, walkable places that offer more mobility options, encourage healthy lifestyles and provide better access to jobs and services.

In addition to restaurants and shops, Jonesboro Mayor Joy Day says 49 homes are slated to be built in Jonesboro off McDonough Street.

“It was a project that was conceived before the last recession,” she said. “It’ll be an in-town development. They will be single-family homes, from the low to mid $200s. It’s going to be a nice little neighborhood.”

Restaurants opening in historic Jonesboro

Details of Jonesboro’s Broad Street Project

Come Home To Clayton spoke with Day further about her town’s plans to bring long-awaited amenities to the county.

Mayor Day Discusses Details of Broad Street Project

Q. When did Jonesboro officials decide to revitalize downtown?

A. The push actually began well over 10 years ago. Jonesboro, like other cities and counties, was affected by the downturn in the economy in 2008. Prior to that, we had begun Phase I of our downtown Streetscape planned and ready to execute. The Streetscape included a complete refurbishment of our central downtown sidewalks and Main Street, including decorative lamp posts, benches, and other items. Streetscape II followed in 2014, encompassing McDonough Street and the north and south boundaries of Main Street, from North Avenue to South Avenue.

Q. What led to that decision?

A. Our central business district had become stagnant, with little commerce and it consisted of mostly law offices. There was little ambiance to draw people into the downtown area. Citizens voiced interest in more restaurants and gathering places in the city. The city became a member of the Main Street Program, embracing its tenets and expanding our view of what downtown development could really mean to our city. A plan called Blueprint Jonesboro became the catalyst that pushed the process forward quickly.

Q. What are the plans for Jonesboro going forward? How many different projects are involved?

A. The city is working with business owners whose buildings back the Broad Street Project to enhance the exteriors of the structures. Facade grants are available to members of Main Street to assist with this effort. The city has plans following the Jonesboro Broad Street Project to build a new City Center near Lee Street Park, a City Hall and Police Department with a large community room for various functions and events. There is also a Phase II of Broad Street envisioned but not yet put to paper. We have plans to improve the front of our Main Street buildings also with a wider footpath area to provide for sidewalk cafes and meeting places. We aspire to build paths in the city to connect Jonesboro with existing county paths. This would provide a connection with citizens living outside the city, enhancing our golf cart travel. We are presently a golf cart community. All streets are accessible to golf carts, except for Tara Boulevard. We continue to attract new businesses downtown because of the synergy generated by a combination of good development practices, the Livable Centers Initiative, our Rural Zone Status, and the interest and energy of our staff and constituents.

Q. Talk about the Broad Street project. How many businesses will be there? What business is going into the old fire station?

A. The Jonesboro Broad Street Project consists of a comprehensive refurbishing of the area between West Mill and Church Streets in the Historic District. Broad Street connects these two streets near central downtown. The city obtained ownership of the dilapidated buildings behind the old Fire Station and demolished them. The project includes a three-station restaurant in the old fire station as well as a microbrewery. The building is being completely remodeled, including the addition of a large deck in front and an expansive covered porch in the back. Adjacent to the restaurant will be a new building, “The Gathering Place.” The two structures frame our new City Green, a feature to gather citizens and visitors into the Historic District. Also included in the project area underground utilities, pavers, an extensive landscaping plan, and a small pavilion for an additional seating area or small performances.

Q. What companies, restaurants are coming into Jonesboro and where will they be located?

A. There are plans for a three-level Mexican Restaurant in the downtown as well as others in various preliminary processes. The new restaurant in the Broad Street Project will be a comprehensive development, including specialty drinks and a variety of foods, a microbrewery, and a full bar.

Q. It’s been announced that the trendy Slutty Vegan restaurant is coming to Jonesboro. Where will it be?

A. Slutty Vegan will be located on McDonough Street in the Historic District. It is in the planning process. The timeline has not been released.

Q. How long will it take before all of the plans are in place? When will we see concrete evidence of the vision Jonesboro leaders have for the town?

A. The vision is an evolving process. The essence of the vision is contained in Blueprint Jonesboro, which our stakeholders had a strong voice in devising. Public meetings elicited an overwhelming response. Our citizens and business owners were actively involved in the process.

Q. What is the cost of this part of the revitalization and how is it being paid for?

A. The Broad Street Project is a $7.8 million project. Funding sources include Special Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST), private investor funding such as the fire station restaurant and money from grants.

Q. All told, what will Jonesboro look like? What is the vision? When will all of these plans be in place? What do you hope this will do for the city and ultimately the county?

A. Jonesboro’s vision and commitment are to provide an attractive and inclusive meeting place for citizens and visitors. With our arts and entertainment district developing, we aspire to be a meeting place for daytime and nighttime visitors. Our goal is always to afford and exemplify a city where people can live, play and work, and where visitors want to return.

Q. What will be the biggest change people will see in this portion of the revitalization?

A. Visually, the added beauty and ambiance will be most prominent. Experientially, citizens and visitors will be able to enjoy new restaurants and shops. This work must remain seamless as we continue to plan new streetscapes and other developments in Jonesboro. We will continue our work in the Main Street Program, the Livable Centers Initiative, grant funding, and seek and participate in other opportunities that enhance development in our city. We are committed to “Smart Growth” as we make planned choices to move Jonesboro forward economically.

]]>https://www.comehome2clayton.com/jonesboro-broad-street-project-to-bring-art-and-entertainment-district-to-clayton/feed/01911Meet Marian “Mayron” Dansbyhttps://www.comehome2clayton.com/meet-marian-mayron-dansby/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=meet-marian-mayron-dansby
https://www.comehome2clayton.com/meet-marian-mayron-dansby/#respondSun, 15 Dec 2019 07:19:53 +0000https://www.comehome2clayton.com/?p=1871Marian “Mayron” DansbyName: Marian “Mayron” Dansby Title: Chef and owner of Mayron’s Meals and Catering How the company got its name: She started selling sandwiches at the ticket counters to airline employees at Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport when she worked at the airport for one of the airlines. Co-workers who were from the Caribbean couldn’t pronounce […]

How the company got its name: She started selling sandwiches at the ticket counters to airline employees at Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport when she worked at the airport for one of the airlines. Co-workers who were from the Caribbean couldn’t pronounce her first name, so they began calling her “Mayron.” Employees enjoyed her meals so much she said that “my business grew from there.” She has been cooking since she was a child. “My grandmother stood me up to the stove in a chair when I was six years old, so I don’t know how to cook from a box or package.”

Hometown: Birmingham, Ala.

Residence: Jonesboro

Hobbies: Besides cooking? Traveling, especially with my son Jeffrey Dansby, who has his own photography business- jeffreydansbyphoto.com, listening to music and spending time with friends and family.

If you didn’t have your business, what would you be doing: I’m passionate about children. If I didn’t have my business, I’d like to put a smile on the faces of as many children as I could. I’d probably be doing some work with children. I currently also work with the Clayton County Public Schools in the nutrition services department.

Interesting fact: Marian “Mayron” Dansby was recently honored with the Faithful Service Award from the United Youth Adult Conference and Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance-Bottom for her participation in the search for missing and murdered children in Atlanta. As captain of one of the search teams, she led volunteers in the search for the children every Saturday from 1979 to 1981.

]]>https://www.comehome2clayton.com/meet-marian-mayron-dansby/feed/01871Millennial homebuyer taking the helm of homeownershiphttps://www.comehome2clayton.com/millennial-homebuyer-taking-the-helm-of-homeownership-in-clayton/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=millennial-homebuyer-taking-the-helm-of-homeownership-in-clayton
https://www.comehome2clayton.com/millennial-homebuyer-taking-the-helm-of-homeownership-in-clayton/#respondSun, 15 Dec 2019 06:30:23 +0000https://www.comehome2clayton.com/?p=1857The story of a Millennial homebuyer Meet Valerie, 25 years of age, and one of my youngest homebuyers in my 18 years in the industry. She graduated from college two years ago, got a job, then closed on her new home last week, bringing only $50 to the closing table through a special program, then […]

Meet Valerie, 25 years of age, and one of my youngest homebuyers in my 18 years in the industry. She graduated from college two years ago, got a job, then closed on her new home last week, bringing only $50 to the closing table through a special program, then walking away with some negotiated bonuses. I admire Valerie for her energy, intelligence, achievements, enthusiasm, love for God and life, and desire to make the right financial moves for herself and her two-year-old daughter. Valerie moved from DeKalb to Clayton. She purchased a three-bedroom brick home with beautiful hardwood floors, a side-entry garage, and a large fenced-in backyard. Her daughter immediately gravitated to her special play area in their new home the first time she saw it. Valerie was elated and teary-eyed at closing. Seeing her that way made me teary-eyed as well and reminded me why I chose this profession – to represent and protect my clients, making their dream of homeownership become a reality.

Millennials and homeownership

Studies show that Millennials are the largest generation in history. They are more tech-savvy, racially, and ethnically diverse and more educated than other generations. However, they lag previous generations in homeownership. We need more millennial homebuyers.

The bottom line is this: Millennials and other generations – Don’t settle for renting too long making other people rich. Start building your wealth today through homeownership. Buying a home is an investment, just like stocks and bonds. The differences are you get to live in this investment, plus its tax-deductible benefits as a primary residence. Be sure to speak with your tax consultant about tax deductions that will be beneficial for you in purchasing a home in comparison to renting.

About the Publisher

Altimese Dees founded The Real Estate Gallery of Georgia, LLC., in 2008 out of a passion and commitment to providing real estate representation to buyers, sellers, property owners, investors, builders, corporations, and governments. Altimese is the publisher of ComeHome2Clayton.com. If you are in the market to buy or sell a home or office in Georgia, please contact Altimese Dees, Broker/Owner, The Real Estate Gallery of Georgia; Direct: 678-644-1712; Email: deesaltimese@gmail.com; Web: www.RealEstateGalleryGA.com and www.TrustedRealEstateConsultant.com.

]]>https://www.comehome2clayton.com/millennial-homebuyer-taking-the-helm-of-homeownership-in-clayton/feed/01857Jonesboro, GA – A Golf Cart Friendly Communityhttps://www.comehome2clayton.com/jonesboro-ga-a-golf-cart-friendly-community/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=jonesboro-ga-a-golf-cart-friendly-community
https://www.comehome2clayton.com/jonesboro-ga-a-golf-cart-friendly-community/#respondWed, 02 Oct 2019 03:27:18 +0000https://www.comehome2clayton.com/?p=1821If you live in Jonesboro and have some errands to run locally, why not do so by golf cart? Jonesboro, GA is a golf-cart friendly community. Jonesboro residents can drive golf carts on any street in the city except for Tara Boulevard, Turner Road, Stockbridge Road and all areas north of Hwy 138, according to […]

]]>If you live in Jonesboro and have some errands to run locally, why not do so by golf cart? Jonesboro, GA is a golf-cart friendly community.

Jonesboro residents can drive golf carts on any street in the city except for Tara Boulevard, Turner Road, Stockbridge Road and all areas north of Hwy 138, according to an ordinance passed last October which updated a previous law.

With the nearest golf course – Lake Spivey Golf Club – five miles away, why would Jonesboro officials want golf carts rolling through the county seat?

Golf carts fit snugly into the city’s vision of becoming a destination city. The town of 4,800 residents is in the midst of a five-to-10-year plan to create a small town with big-city amenities such as restaurants, entertainment, and historical venues.

“We’re creating a destination nestled in the heart of Clayton County. In creating this destination, you have to focus on all of the different modes (of transportation),” City Manager Ricky Clark said. “We don’t want our residents to travel north to get various amenities, and because of the small-town feel, we want them to get around freely. So within this destination, therein lies golf carts.”

The city currently has ten registered golf carts. To encourage more people to use golf carts, city officials purchased one for City Hall.

“There was no way to encourage our residents to buy golf carts if city officials weren’t using them,” said Clark who uses the city golf cart to take people on tours of Jonesboro.

Beyond being a golf-cart friendly community, golf carts are economical to use and fun to drive.

One avid golf cart user is Mayor Joy Day, who has her own cart. “I love mine,” she said. “I use it all the time.”

In order to drive a golf cart in Jonesboro, GA, you must possess a valid driver’s license. Golf cart owners who live in Jonesboro pay $20 for a permit while non-residents pay $30. Individuals over the age of 65 receive a 50 percent discount.

]]>https://www.comehome2clayton.com/jonesboro-ga-a-golf-cart-friendly-community/feed/01821SOLD!! 7356 Merlin Way, Riverdale, GA 30296https://www.comehome2clayton.com/presenting-7356-merlin-way-riverdale-ga-30296/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=presenting-7356-merlin-way-riverdale-ga-30296
https://www.comehome2clayton.com/presenting-7356-merlin-way-riverdale-ga-30296/#respondSat, 31 Aug 2019 17:22:20 +0000https://www.comehome2clayton.com/?p=1721This home has been sold, but stay tuned for the RENOVATION story with permission from the new owner! “Potential” is the best word to describe this 4-sided brick/frame home in Riverdale’s Stoneridge Community. It’s the perfect combination of space and affordability, but it needs some repairs to bring out its full potential. With a split-level […]

]]>This home has been sold, but stay tuned for the RENOVATION story with permission from the new owner!

“Potential” is the best word to describe this 4-sided brick/frame home in Riverdale’s Stoneridge Community. It’s the perfect combination of space and affordability, but it needs some repairs to bring out its full potential. With a split-level floorplan, this home has a welcoming living room, large country kitchen with plenty of cabinet space and breakfast area. All of the bedrooms are spacious. The master bedroom is connected to a full bathroom, that also has hallway access. The two secondary bedrooms share a ‘jack and jill’ half bath, which has great benefit and reward. The basement offers many possibilities including office space, exercise room, or a family room once it’s finished. And, for those families that enjoy outdoor grilling, there is no shortage of lawn space in the backyard – perfect for entertaining family and friends. Convenient location near area shops, restaurants and recreation; the Riverdale Towne Center; easy access to I-75, I-285, and the airport. Come Home to Clayton — Live, Work and Thrive!

All information herein is believed to be true, but not warranted. Equal Housing Opportunity.